When navigating a channel through a bend, where is the deepest part typically located?

In a navigational channel, especially when there is a bend, the deepest part is typically found on the outside of the bend. This phenomenon is due to the concept of centrifugal force acting on the water as it flows around the bend. As water moves through the bend, it tends to exert greater force on the outside edge, causing sediment and debris to be scoured away. As a result, the outer bank of the channel remains deeper than the inner bank, which tends to accumulate sediment, thereby creating shallower areas.

This understanding is crucial for safe navigation, as knowing where the deepest part of the channel lies helps boat operators avoid grounding incidents and ensures they remain in the safest part of the waterway during passage. The center of the channel can sometimes be deep, but this is not a guarantee, especially in bends. The entry point to the channel does not typically denote where the deepest water exists; it may vary depending on the specific characteristics of the waterway. Therefore, navigating with an awareness of these dynamics allows captains to make informed decisions.